The Phillies head into Cincinnati for a three game series to face the NL Central leading Reds. The Phightins just finished up their interleague schedule yesterday against Toronto in Philly playing a rare road-home series. They were 10-8 against the American League this season.

The Phils come into today’s game winning 8 of their last 12 thanks to the offense getting a heavy dose of smelling salt. Chase Utley andJayson Werth have led the offensive charge hitting .381 and .400, respectively, in their last 11 games. Ryan Howard has also been on a tear in the month of June hitting over .300 with seven homers.

On the mound for Philadelphia will be right-hander Kyle Kendrick. In his last three starts away from Citizens Bank Park, Kendrick has only allowed two runs in 20 innings pitched. He is 3-0 against the Reds in his career despite having a 6.61 ERA.

For the Reds, Johnny Cueto will try and continue his great start to the season. Of his 15 starts this season, Cincinnati has won 10 of those games. However, Cueto is winless against the Phillies. In his last start against Philly in 2009, Cueto only lasted two-thirds of an inning giving up nine runs. The Phillies ended up winning that game 22-1.

The Phillies will most likely be without third baseman Placido Polanco for a third straight start. He was supposed to receive another cortisone shot in his elbow yesterday. He could be back in the line-up tomorrow.

Named one of the best beers in the country by several publications, Oak Aged Yeti Imperial Stout is a blend of French and toasted oak chips, which infuses a subtle oak and vanilla character into Yeti’s already intense chocolate, roasted coffee malt flavor and hugely assertive hop profile. Tasty. It probably won’t quench your thirst on this hot day, but if your indoors in the AC, open up a few of these and enjoy as the Phils smack the Reds around. – By Pat